What Does Each Color in a Mood Ring Signify?

A mood ring consists of a glass or quartz gemstone that contains a capsule full of thermotropic liquid crystals. These crystals contain molecules that react to changes in a person's body temperature. Any temperature change causes the molecules to absorb and reflect different color wavelengths, which changes the color of the stone. Because emotions cause skin temperatures to fluctuate, many people believe that mood rings actually signify the emotional state of the wearer. Mood ring colors include the entire spectrum, but there are a few colors that appear more often than others. Read on to learn what each color in a mood ring signifies.

Black, Gray and White

Black is typically the color displayed of a mood ring while it's not being worn. If black is displayed while it is on someone's finger, it is thought to indicate that the wearer is extremely stressed, tense, overworked or ill. Although gray is seen less often than black, it is thought to mean that the wearer is sad, tired, afraid or anxious. White on a mood ring is usually associated with feeling confused, bored or frustrated.

Green

Green is the color calibrated to the average surface skin temperature, so it is considered the most "normal" or "ideal" of the mood ring colors. Green typically signifies that the wearer is feeling calm and peaceful. A dark green color, such as jade and emerald, might indicate the wearer is feeling alert and involved, while a bright green color means a person is feeling interested and inquisitive. Greens with a hint of blue, such as deep teal and verdigris, are associated with contemplation, motivation and thoughtfulness.

Blue

A blue color in a mood ring is generally understood to mean that the wearer is in a happy, peaceful or relaxed state of mind. Dark blue colors may show up when a person is feeling passionate or romantic. Blue-violet and indigo colors are often associated with satisfaction, tranquility and inner harmony. A teal or aquamarine blue might mean the wearer is in an upbeat or flirtatious mood. Cobalt blue signifies the wearer is approachable and pleasant.

Red and Orange

Warmer mood ring colors are thought to signify a more intense or enthusiastic state of mind. Deep reds hint at passion, arousal and feelings of love. A brighter red indicates that the wearer is feeling excited, adventurous, angered or alarmed. Dark orange mood rings can signify that the wearer is feeling impatient, nervous, exasperated, worried or even aggressive. A yellow-orange color might mean that the wearer is feeling a little bit nervous, upset or confused.

Yellow and Brown

Yellow is a color often associated with mental processes. A yellow color in a mood ring may signify the wearer is feeling imaginative or curious. Bright yellow could show up on the ring of a person studying for an exam or writing a heartfelt poem. Dark browns might indicate restlessness, worries, troubles or fear. A yellow-brown color like amber is thought to signify mixed emotions. A color leaning more toward taupe can hint at unpredictability, stress, aggravation or angst.

Pink and Purple

Pink is a color with multiple meanings. A pink mood ring typically signifies that the wearer is feeling calm, cool and rested. However, a bright pink color, such as magenta or fuchsia, means that the wearer is feeling loving, affectionate and happy. A light pink might demonstrate uncertainty, bemusement or fear. A dark purple color signifies an individual is feeling sensual, passionate or romantic. A reddish-purple is more likely to be associated with moodiness, anger and despair.